Susannah's Journal

Love is in the air. It’s Valentine’s Day. We’re in the business of proclaiming that “Love Wins” to women and children for whom love has not been a constant companion. Women who are pregnant and still using opioid drugs are generally the lowest in the pecking order of those caught up in substance use disorder. One of our ladies who arrived after the birth of her child reported that when she would go to a Narcotics Anonymous meeting when she was pregnant, people would move away from her or avoid her altogether.

“From those who have been given much, even more is required,” said Jesus. Those who have been given a heap of grace, should have a heap of grace to give to others, shouldn’t they? But, it seems it’s human nature to hoard that very same grace.

On the other hand, we had a wonderful time of sharing at Susannah’s House today. On this Valentine’s Day, each mom, staff member and volunteer received a red rose and was showered with words of love and support from members of the group. For many of our moms, it was hard to stand in front of her peers and hear those words. It was just plain difficult to hear positive, loving things said over you.

And yet… there were tears of gratitude and release from so many. No one brushed off the moment. So many beautiful words were spoken in appreciation for the community we all share. We are sisters and family for each other, where most often there is no family.

After everyone had been loved on, I was able to tell these precious women that God loves them and that so many people they will never meet love them too and pray for them. When they are down and feel like they cannot go on, someone is praying fothem.